The company also works to create a team-oriented culture, Ms. Corriveau adds. All staff – from the general manager to the housekeepers – wear the same black uniforms, and no one wears a name tag. This means staff members are forced to learn and remember each other’s names.

“All these little things create a feeling,” says Ms. Corriveau.

This approach isn’t just for show. The hotel’s executives meet with the entire staff every two weeks, and employees are encouraged to get involved and talk about the business, Ms. Corriveau says.

Because we’re not corporate, because we’re independent, we make decisions based on feedback we get in the building.

“We listen to them,” she adds.

The company also provides several perks, including discounts at the hotel, its restaurant, spa and golf course.

For Ms. Corriveau, having an engaged staff is good for business.

“What we see are guests coming back because of the staff,” she says. According to Ms. Corriveau, keeping employees happy is part of maintaining a high level of service.

The company also gives out quarterly awards to staff members who are nominated by their peers. The awards are presented at a wine-and-cheese event and the winners get a paid day off.